If you’re planning a trip to Sharjah or nearby Dubai, the Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner from Tribal Trails Tours promises an engaging mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 66 reviews, draws travelers who want more than just a quick peek at the desert. It offers a well-rounded package that balances adrenaline-filled activities with relaxing cultural moments, topped off with a delicious buffet dinner and lively performances.
Three aspects consistently catch travelers’ attention: the variety of activities, the knowledgeable guides, and the authentic camp experience. You’ll get to go dune bashing, sandboarding, ride camels, and visit a traditional Bedouin camp—all within one evening. Plus, the meal and entertainment, including belly dancing and fire shows, add a festive touch. The minor caveat? The whole experience lasts around 6 to 9 hours, which is a good chunk of your evening. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural sights, and lively evenings under the stars.
Key Points
- Comprehensive desert experience with activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding
- Includes round-trip transport from Dubai in air-conditioned comfort
- Cultural immersion with henna tattoos, shisha, and Bedouin camp visits
- Delicious BBQ dinner with unlimited soft drinks and vegetarian options
- Entertainment featuring belly dance, Tanoura show, and fire acts
- Highly rated guides known for their friendliness and professionalism
An In-Depth Look at the Desert Adventure
This tour is designed to give you a full evening of excitement and cultural insight, all wrapped into one seamless package. From the moment your pickup is arranged—via a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—you’re whisked into a world of sand dunes and traditional Arabian hospitality.
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The Pickup and Early Stops
The experience begins with a pickup from your hotel or specified location in Dubai, with a knowledgeable safari guide leading the way. The group size is usually kept to a maximum of 100 travelers, ensuring a more personal feel. The guide, often praised for being friendly and insightful, explains what’s ahead and shares interesting tidbits about the desert landscape and local culture.
Your first stops include sightseeing at Camel Farms, Dubai Outlet Mall, and Global Village. These aren’t just quick photo ops; they’re opportunities to appreciate the local agriculture and shopping culture before you head into the desert. The Camel Farms give you a glimpse of traditional livestock, while Global Village and Outlet Mall stops offer a taste of Dubai’s bustling retail scene—these are optional but good for stretching your legs and snapping some photos.
The Thrills: Dune Bashing and Sandboarding
The core of the adventure kicks off at Al Badayer, home to stunning red dunes. Here, you’ll experience dune bashing in a 4×4—a rollercoaster ride over steep, shifting sand peaks that many guests describe as exhilarating. As one reviewer put it, “The whole experience was the highlight of our trip,” thanks to the skillful driving and dramatic scenery.
Sandboarding and a sunset photo stop follow, giving you a chance to try gliding down the dunes or at least capture some stunning desert vistas. Sandboarding is free, but quad bike rentals are available if you’re feeling extra adventurous—note that these come with extra charges.
The Bedouin Camp Experience
After the adrenaline rush, you’re taken to a traditional Bedouin camp, a highlight that combines culture with leisure. Here, you can ride camels, get a henna tattoo, and even enjoy shisha—activities that make the camp feel authentic and relaxed. One reviewer, Rachel, loved the camp’s “wonderful food and excellent acts,” emphasizing how the Bedouin setting added charm and cultural flavor.
The camp also offers soft drinks, tea, and snacks, making it the perfect spot for a laid-back evening. The entertainment includes mesmerizing belly dance, Tanoura spinning, and fire shows, which are lively and engaging.
The Dinner and Entertainment
The highlight of the evening—beyond the activities—is the buffet BBQ dinner. The meal includes a range of options, with vegetarian choices available, and unlimited soft drinks. Guests often mention the “delicious food,” a testament to the value of the included dinner.
The entertainment continues with traditional dances and fire acts, creating a festive atmosphere. These performances are not just background noise; they add a cultural dimension that engages and entertains everyone.
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Drop-off and Overall Duration
The entire experience lasts between 6 to 9 hours, so it’s a full evening affair. After the camp activities and entertainment, you’ll be driven back to your hotel or designated location, feeling satisfied from a mix of adventure, culture, and good food.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At $79 per person, this safari provides a comprehensive package that combines transportation, activities, food, and entertainment—making it a cost-effective choice compared to booking each element separately. The inclusion of unlimited water, shisha, henna, and soft drinks adds to the perceived value, especially as the activities are varied and well-paced.
What Makes the Experience Standout?
Travelers frequently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Dilber, who make the journey engaging and informative. Their local insights enrich the experience beyond just the activities. Guests also appreciate the stunning desert views and the chance to see Dubai’s iconic dunes at sunset.
The authentic camp setting, complete with traditional entertainment, offers a more genuine taste of Bedouin life than many commercialized options. For those keen on cultural experiences intertwined with adventure, this tour hits the mark.
Things to Keep in Mind
While most guests find the tour well-organized and fun, they also note the long duration—so it’s best suited for those prepared for an evening out. Also, since alcohol isn’t included, travelers seeking a more party-oriented experience might want to plan accordingly. The tour is family-friendly, but children should be supervised, especially during dune bashing and camel riding.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?
This desert safari is ideal for travelers craving a lively, all-in-one desert experience. Adventure seekers will love the dune bashing and sandboarding, while culture enthusiasts will enjoy the Bedouin camp’s authentic touches. It’s perfect for those who want a hassle-free evening that combines thrill, tradition, and good food.
If you’re visiting Dubai or Sharjah and want to explore the desert’s beauty and culture without breaking the bank, this tour delivers impressive value. It’s especially suited for first-timers wanting a comprehensive taste of the UAE’s desert landscape, as well as groups and families looking for a fun, safe, and engaging activity.
FAQ
Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip pickup from your hotel or selected location in Dubai, making logistics easy.
What activities are included?
You’ll experience dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, and visit a Bedouin camp with henna tattoos and shisha.
How long does the tour last?
Expect around 6 to 9 hours, covering transportation, activities, dinner, and entertainment.
Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the BBQ dinner includes vegetarian options along with soft drinks and unlimited water.
What entertainment is provided at the camp?
The camp features belly dancing, Tanoura spinning, and fire shows, creating a lively, entertaining atmosphere.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
Is quad biking included?
Quad biking is an optional activity that can be added for extra charges; it’s not included in the base tour price.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but should be supervised, especially during dune bashing and camel rides.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and a hat or sunglasses to shield from the sun are recommended.
To sum it up, this Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner offers a well-rounded, exciting way to experience the UAE’s iconic desert landscape. With friendly guides, thrilling activities, cultural touches, and a hearty dinner, it’s a memorable outing that suits adventure lovers, culture seekers, and families alike. For anyone looking for value-packed fun and authentic experiences in the desert, this tour comes highly recommended.